Manchester Board of Guardians

The Manchester Board of Guardians was a local authority established in the 19th century to administer poor relief in Manchester, England. Created under the Poor Law Amendment Act of 1834, its role was to oversee the provision of assistance, such as workhouses, for impoverished individuals and families. The Board was made up of elected local officials who managed welfare services, aimed at reducing outdoor charity and encouraging self-sufficiency. It operated until reforms in the early 20th century gradually replaced workhouses with more modern social welfare systems.